2020 Mercedes-Benz S560e

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560e is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that blends performance and efficiency. It features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2020 S-Class include various V6, V8, and V12 gasoline engines, as well as diesel options in some markets (though not the S560e in the US). A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard across most of the S-Class range. Owners often praise the S560e for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. Common complaints revolve around the complexity of the infotainment system and the relatively limited all-electric driving range.

Electric Motor

3.0L Turbocharged V6 with Electric Motor

• Battery Management System (BMS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric range, failure to charge fully, error messages related to the hybrid system, or the vehicle not entering electric mode.
  • Solution: Software updates to the BMS, replacement of individual battery modules, or in severe cases, replacement of the entire high-voltage battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $15,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed gear changes, especially between lower gears (1st to 3rd). Can be more pronounced when cold.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, uneven ride height, error messages related to the air suspension system, or failure to adjust ride height.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty component (air strut, air compressor, valve block, or level sensor). Replacement of the affected part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ (per strut).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, slow response times, screen blackouts, navigation errors, connectivity issues (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and random reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates are often the first step. If the problem persists, the infotainment system head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,500+ (head unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors failing to activate, providing false warnings, or displaying error messages.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean the sensors. If the problem persists, replace the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or creaking noises emanating from the sunroof assembly, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks and seals. Tightening any loose components. In some cases, replacement of the sunroof frame or related parts may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560e offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential issues can arise with its complex systems. Electrical glitches, particularly with the MBUX infotainment system, and air suspension malfunctions are among the more common complaints. Hybrid system issues with the battery can also be a cause for concern. While software updates can resolve some problems, component replacements can be costly. Overall, the issues range from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial.